Adoption fees & frequently asked questions
Check out our list of Frequently Asked Questions and find everything you need to know about adoption at the Dubuque Regional Humane Society (DRHS). Don’t see your question listed here? Give us a call, or stop in so we can help!
How much are adoption fees?
DOGS
AGE FEE
Under five months $310
Five months to seven months $285
Seven months to seven years $235
Seven years and older $135
CATS
AGE FEE
Under seven months $130
Seven months to seven years $80
Seven years and older $40
CRITTERS
Fees vary by species. Please ask us or check out the critters profile page for more details.
How long does the adoption process take?
All adoptions take about 45 minutes to complete.
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Can I put a hold on an animal?
Yes, holds can be placed both in person and over the phone. The DRHS does not accept holds via email, social media, or phone voice messages. In order to hold an animal that you may be interested in adopting, the DRHS requires you to pay a $35 NON-REFUNDABLE holding fee if in person, or $50 non-refundable holding fee if on the phone. If you decide to adopt the animal on which you placed a hold, the $35/$50 fee will be applied towards the adoption fee. Holds are nontransferable to other animals. A hold is effective until 4:00pm the next business day (6:00pm on Friday). If you are not back in by 4:00pm the next business day (6:00pm on Friday), you lose the $35/$50 holding fee, and as stated above, it is non-refundable. ​​
What do I need to bring in order to adopt a pet from the DRHS?
You will need to provide a photo ID if you want to visit with our dogs, cats and critters.
What if I do not find the pet I'm looking for at the shelter?
Do not feel like you have to choose a pet the first time you visit. Many of our happiest adopters come to the shelter multiple times to look for the perfect pet. If you do not see what you are looking for, ask us! We are here to help.
What happens after I find the right companion?
Once you have found your perfect match, fill out an adoption application form at the front desk. We will evaluate your lifestyle and review your history of pet ownership to make sure you and your new best friend are a good fit.
What if I have another dog at home?
You should bring your dog to our shelter for a dog-to-dog introduction.
What if I have another cat at home?
If you have a cat at home and you are interested in adopting another animal, you should not bring your cat out to the shelter for an introduction. If you are interested in adopting a dog, we can walk the dog through our cat area at the shelter. If you are interested in adopting a cat and you have a cat at home, ask a staff member for tips on how to do a proper introduction once you get home.
What is included in the adoption fee?
All adoptions from the Dubuque Regional Humane Society include the following:
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Spay or neuter surgery
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Microchipping
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Deworming
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First set of distemper shots
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Flea & tick treatment
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Rabies shots
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A two-pound bag of dog or cat food courtesy of Theisen's Home Farm Auto and Hill's Science Diet Pet Food
In addition, dogs will receive the following:
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Bordetella Vaccination
In addition, cats will receive the following:
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FELV/FIV Testing
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Why does the DRHS spay/neuter each animal that goes up for adoption?
Iowa law states that animals adopted from a shelter be spayed or neutered.
Can I adopt a pet if I rent?
If you rent, you will need your landlord's permission to have a pet.